Home Membership Recognition & Awards The Australian Property Hall of Fame Hall of Fame Inductees Harry Seidler ACOBE

HARRY SEIDLER ACOBE

1923 – 2006

Harry Seidler’s introduction of authentic Modernism changed the course of architecture in Australia.  Arriving in Australia in 1948 aged 25, he captured the attention of the property and architectural community, first with his modern house designs and then in 1967 with the completion of Australia Square (Sydney), setting the standard for future office towers. Harry’s office towers which were designed to be constructed quickly became landmarks, many with his trademark public plazas. He was an early champion of the need for well-planned modern apartment living without sacrificing the design aesthetic: he thought it was his job to build a better world. He brought modern architecture to Australia and took it overseas with the Australian Embassy in Paris, the Hong Kong Club and in his native Vienna, with the sweeping riverside affordable housing complex, Wohnpark Neue Donau. His legacy is timeless, enduring, beautiful and commercially successful architecture. He was awarded the prestigious Royal Gold Medal by the RIBA in 1996.

View Inductee Video